A 285-year-old violin belonging to Philharmonia orchestra member, David López Ibáñez, was stolen during a pub visit in London. Authorities are appealing for public help in identifying the thief.
London’s Valued Violin Stolen in Shocking Pub Heist
London’s Valued Violin Stolen in Shocking Pub Heist
British police seek assistance in locating a historic violin valued at $200,000, stolen from musician David López Ibáñez in a pub.
On a chilly night in February, musician David López Ibáñez prepared for a regular evening in London, intending to unwind after a rehearsal with the Philharmonia orchestra. As he enjoyed a meal at a local pub, he placed his violin, a treasured 285-year-old instrument, beside him. Without warning, an unknown assailant snatched the violin case, camouflaging it under a lengthy beige coat, and made a swift exit.
“Stunned is an understatement,” reflected Mr. López Ibáñez during an interview, recounting his disbelief upon discovering the absence of the cherished instrument. “It was more than wooden strings to me; it had been my companion for eight years, playing music across the globe.”
This particular violin, crafted by Italian master Lorenzo Carcassi in 1740, represents a significant cultural and monetary value, estimated at over £150,000, equating to $200,000. For any dedicated musician, the loss of such an instrument transcends monetary concerns, tapping into emotional and artistic realms.
Mr. López Ibáñez lamented the vulnerability that led to the theft, expressing that “you let your guard down for a second; it felt like the world was collapsing on top of me.” The Metropolitan Police are urging the public for any information regarding this brazen theft, as the music community rallies in hope for the instrument's recovery and the culprit’s identification.
